What is the difference between minoxidil 5% and minoxidil 10%?

There are a few differences that are important to be aware of:1. Minoxidil 5% is FDA approved whereas 10 % is not2 Minoxidil 10 % may or may not contain more propylene glycol in some cases to enhance solubility of minoxidil.3. Side effects may be greater with the 10 % than 5 %.

The 2 main differences are that 5% minoxidil is FDA approved, the 10% minoxidil is not, and 10% typically would have greater benefits for hair but it also has a higher risk of side effects.

Studies have shown that 5% is much more effective than 2%, so it follows that 10% will be more effective than 5% and there are anecdotal reports that that is the case (although I do not know of FDA studies to back me up). But at 10%,  more of the Minoxidil will be absorbed through the scalp - especially if you use a micro-needle, and that higher absorption can cause dizziness, low BP, and even irregular heartbeat. For my patients, I recommend Formula 82M. 

There are some minor differences between the two but the only notable change between 5% and 10% is the actual minoxidil concentration. 10% typically would have greater benefits for hair but it also has a higher risk of side effect.

The higher the strength of minoxidil, the greater the benefits and the greater the risks of side effects such a dizziness and low blood pressure